Curiosity, I believe, is one of the ingredients that makes a man even smarter, and that is one reason why I am usually unashamed to pick a lesson or two from life situations whenever I find one. I was at a spot to get myself some cold fruit juice after walking under the sun for a while, I decided to sit and relax in order to have my temperature regulate itself again.
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While I was sitting, a pregnant woman who was also dehydrated, requested a bottle of cold water which she gulped down at high speed. Some other women present at the venue told her she was wrong for drinking cold water in that state because according to them, this act of hers would hurt the baby. I have heard people make this statement before now, but the conclusion on whether it is just a myth or a scientifically backed point is a thing I did not know before the time.
I decided to, of course, do some readings, and carry out some research to find out if indeed there is a scientific backing behind this popular myth. Imagine a woman who is used to drinking cold water and suddenly having to stop the consumption of cold water for 9 good months.
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Unfortunately, I couldn't find a published article to either support or kick against this claim, so I decided to go with some of the things I found on the internet, of course, some quotes from some experts, but before we go further, I would like to know if this theorem is only regional based or a widespread thing, not finding a published article about it, made me begin to wonder if it is just a Nigeria based myth or not.
The statement from Karen Pek who is a specialist said, considering this topic from the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine, the consumption of warm water is ideal for pregnant women and for all, she also stated that, the consumption of excessive cold beverages could lead to spleen Qi deficiency and stomach cold. Not only that, it also contributes to sluggish digestion, abdominal cramps and pains, poor appetite, and even diarrhea, all these are definitely not pleasant occurrences for pregnant mothers.
She went further to describe the consumption of cold water and drinks as being safe for pregnant mothers, but she also advised that body constitution should be observed first, as it is not advisable for pregnant mothers who have a weak and cold stomach spleen and stomach functions to take cold drinks.
Dr Sangeeta Pikale, says that pregnancy is only an extension of the physiological body and it is not a form of sickness, This means that everything that the body was capable of doing before pregnancy set in, it can also be done during pregnancy. He however mentioned how everyone, whether in a pregnant state or not, should avoid excessive sugary drinks or soda.
While some people believe that the consumption of cold water is to the detriment of the expectant mother, others believe it to be to the detriment of the unborn child, but according to Dr. Joseph Okoeguale, who is the Lead Obstetrician and Gynecologist, at the Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, in Edo State; He believes that saying the consumption of cold water during pregnancy will give the child runny nose, or any other type of respiratory disease is untrue, it is a myth and not a scientific one.
Speaking further, the doctor mentioned that, the consumption of cold water is for the mother and has no effect on the child. It is only a metabolized form of what has been consumed that gets to the unborn baby through the route of the placenta.
Now, this question remains strongly evident in my mind as it appears everyone has a belief they have chosen to stick with when it comes to the consumption of cold water by pregnant women. Who are we to believe? The good thing is, I am a male, but then I am concerned for my wife (in the future), and for my sisters as well. Just in case you are an expert in this field, I would really need more enlightenment.